Wisconsin authorities have launched an extensive manhunt for 47-year-old Virgil G. Thew, a convicted felon and person of interest in a horrific case involving the deaths of two children and one adult in the quiet town of New Lisbon. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving residents grappling with fear, grief, and a deep sense of loss.
The chain of events began on Sunday evening, December 29, 2024, when authorities received a report of a missing child. The child was last seen in the company of Virgil Thew, a man with an extensive criminal history spanning nearly three decades. The case took a darker turn on Monday morning when a second child was reported missing under similarly troubling circumstances.
Hours later, police discovered the lifeless bodies of two children and one adult inside a residence on West Bridge Street in New Lisbon, Wisconsin. The identities of the victims have not yet been officially released, and it remains unclear whether the deceased children were the ones reported missing. The adult victim's relationship to the children is also under investigation.
The house where the victims were found has become the epicenter of a massive forensic investigation, with crime scene technicians working meticulously to gather evidence that may shed light on the timeline of events and Thew's potential involvement. Authorities have not disclosed the manner or cause of death, but the grim nature of the discovery has sent shockwaves through the small, tight-knit community of New Lisbon.
Virgil G. Thew, now the subject of a statewide search, has a long and violent criminal history. Records reveal that Thew has been convicted of a dozen felonies, including burglary, theft, and possession of a firearm as a felon. His interactions with the justice system date back to 1995, with nearly annual incarcerations or parole violations since then.
Law enforcement officials stress that Thew should not be approached under any circumstances. "If seen, do not confront or approach him," authorities warned in a statement, underscoring the potential danger he poses to the public.
The unfolding investigation has placed a spotlight on Thew's history, raising questions about how a person with such an extensive record of violent offenses was allowed to remain in the community. Advocates for stricter parole regulations argue that Thew's case highlights systemic failures in monitoring high-risk individuals after their release.
Wisconsin Probation and Parole confirmed that Thew is currently under active supervision, though specifics about his recent compliance with parole conditions have not been disclosed. Law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin have mobilized to apprehend Thew, with search efforts focusing on locations he is known to frequent.
Helicopters, K-9 units, and tactical teams have been deployed in the search, and a multi-agency task force is coordinating resources to ensure a swift resolution. Authorities are also relying on tips from the public, urging anyone with information about Thew's whereabouts to come forward immediately.
As the manhunt continues, the community of New Lisbon is grappling with fear and heartbreak. Candles flickered in the windows of several homes Monday night as families came together to pray for the victims and their loved ones.
The tragedy has reignited debates about criminal justice policies and parole practices in Wisconsin. Critics argue that the state's parole system lacks the necessary safeguards to prevent high-risk individuals from reoffending, while others point to the broader challenges of rehabilitation and reintegration for those with extensive criminal histories.
The investigation has also drawn attention to the role of community support in preventing and addressing cases of domestic violence, child endangerment, and criminal behavior. Organizations like the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families have offered assistance to those affected by the tragedy, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and education in preventing similar incidents.
As the hours turn into days, the search for Virgil G. Thew remains the top priority for law enforcement. The Wisconsin Department of Justice has joined the effort, offering additional resources and expertise to aid in the manhunt. Officials remain optimistic that Thew will be apprehended and face justice for his alleged involvement in this unthinkable tragedy.
The deaths of two children and one adult in New Lisbon serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of violence. As the investigation unfolds, the community and the nation await answers, hoping for swift justice and a renewed commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future. For now, the focus remains on finding Virgil G. Thew and bringing closure to a heartbroken town reeling from an unimaginable loss.
